A very good-looking and young crowd turned up for XFM’s inaugural ‘Big Night Out’ at the Brixton Academy. On the descent down south, you could spot fellow ‘Big Nighters’ on the tube. Young London, trendy, confident, up-for-it.

Seeing ‘The Others’ lead singer and Indie star Dominic Masters entering via the stage door only reinforced the growing anticipation of a great night. Every young journalist I spoke to had come especially to see HARD-FI perform live. The rest of the crowd comprised predominantly of foxy young girls and in-the-know musos.

After decent performances from the 9 Black Alps and the Do Me Bad Things XFM DJ Christian O’Connell kept the party rockin’ with an eclectic hour-long set ranging from The Darkness to House of Pain. By the time he finished the crowd was jumping and buzzing in anticipation waiting for the next act, HARD-FI.

Anyone who’s seen ‘ School of Rock’ knows all serious bands need a serious light show and judging from this display, HARD-FI mean business. HARD-FI’s infectious raw energy quickly spread through the now heaving Academy and the crowd were finally in full flow. With a set ranging from their ska influenced debut single ‘Cash Machine’ to the insanely fast paced ‘Middle Eastern Holiday’, these four likeable lads from west London played the best, most Rock N Roll set of the night.

After an interesting cover of The White Stripes ‘Seven Nation Army’ with hints of Blur’s ‘Song 2’ the boys played their awesome, moody new single ‘Tied Up to Tight.’ If they aren’t already, every self-respecting Indie DJ will be soon be playing this record.

HARD FI are destined to be a band you’ll hear being talked about for some time, these gun-slingers have staying power. Weaned on real music from The Clash to The Specials, these boys need to be heard. But see them now, they are fantastic performers and attract a gorgeous crowd.